Tim Gilbert, For The Inquirer Posted: Sunday, April 6, 2014, 3:01 AMSTATE COLLEGE, Pa. - James Franklin expressed confidence in his first Penn State teams development after its 11th spring practice on Saturday.With the Blue-White Game scheduled for Saturday, there are several positions up for grabs.The guys have done a great job investing, coming in and watching film, Franklin said to a small gathering of reporters in the Lasch Football Buildings weight room. I dont look at the big picture - its just wake up every single morning and maximize that day. And I think our guys have been doing that.Franklin said he is particularly happy with the defensive lines depth, which has a solid base in returning ends C.J. Olaniyan and Deion Barnes and tackles Austin Johnson and Anthony Zettel. That foursome combined for 93 tackles last season. More coverageFull 2014 NCAA Bracket $1,000,000 BRACKET CHALLENGE POLL: Which freshman should the 76ers target?First, second and third round TV schedule Full NCAA Basketball Odds Buy local college sports tickets Latest college sports videos On the other hand, he said the outside linebacker situation needs to be resolved, as Mike Hull has moved to middle linebacker and the outside spots, to be possibly occupied by Nyeem Wartman and Ben Kline, do not have a pool of experience.The thing about defense is you can solve some of your problems, Franklin said. If you dont feel good about some of your linebackers, you can go nickel and dime.The offense is behind the defense at this point, according to Franklin. Some turnover is expected at wide receiver and on the offensive line, forcing sophomore quarterback Christian Hackenberg to adjust after collecting 2,955 passing yards and 20 touchdowns last season.Franklin said hes been very impressed with the signal-caller, who faces no real competition for the starting job. He and other would be wise to avoid complacency, the coach said.I dont care if youre in-state, out-of-state; I dont care if youre a senior, freshman; I dont care if youre a returning starter; I dont care if youre on scholarship or walk-on, were going to play the best guys, Franklin said. This is not Little League politics, play-your-son type of deal. Were going to play the best guys. Previous Story:Garcia moves to top of Houston Open leaderboardNext Story: Phillies Notes: Ruiz draws praise as the No. 2 hitter Tim GilbertFor The Inquirer #post2 .pw-icon.ra1-pw-icon-reddit {background: url() 0px 0px no-repeat !important;width: 60px !important;height: 20px !important;margin-right:8px;}#post2 .pw-icon.ra1-pw-icon-email {background: url() 0px 0px no-repeat !important;width: 71px !important;height: 28px !important;}0 commentsReprints & Permissions »